The Road to Becoming a Qualified Truck Driver
Nearly 70% of inland freight is transported by truck, and according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, truck driving is one of the fast growing occupations with a large number of job openings each year.
That means there is more freight to be moved than ever, and a high demand but a low supply of qualified drivers. Trucking companies are eager to hire immediately and pay competitively, which translates to this being the best time to get into the trucking industry.
But how exactly does someone break into the truck driving industry? Here’s some basic information to start you on the road to getting qualified for a lucrative truck driving career.
Basic Driver Qualifications
- Truck drivers must have a valid driver’s license issued by the state in which they live.
- Most trucking employers also require that a driver has a clean driving record. That typically means no felonies involving use of a motor vehicle, no driving under the influence convictions, or hit-and-run instances, amongst others.
Commercial Drivers License Qualifications
- If you drive a truck with freight whose combined weight is at least 26,000 pounds you are required to also obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) from the state in which you live.
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to be at least 21 and pass a physical examination once every two years.
- To initially qualify for a CDL, you must pass a written test covering rules and regulations, and then demonstrate you can operate a commercial truck safely.
- Those who earn their CDL might also need to also earn additional endorsements, depending on the type of freight being hauled (i.e. hazardous waste).
The above information is meant to give you a basic overview of what it takes to become a truck driver. But if you want to know more about the trucking industry and other necessary skills, qualifications, and requirements, contact NTB Trucking directly and we’d be happy to provide you with additional information. You can also check out our available driver and non-driver employment opportunities on our website.